When you’re going through a divorce, there are many complex issues that need to be addressed. A skilled divorce attorney can help you navigate these challenges and work toward the settlement you deserve. However, it’s important to remember that you play a key role in your case. Be transparent with your divorce attorney about your expectations for the settlement, including division of communal property and spousal support. Additionally, be ready to discuss your financial situation and complete a Statement of Net Worth, which involves documenting all income, expenses, assets, and debts with supporting documentation.

An experienced attorney will take the time to listen to your concerns and goals to develop a strategy that is best suited for your case. They will assess the viability of your case by examining factors such as the state of your marriage, the complexity of your property division dispute, and your parenting needs. They will also provide you with an accurate assessment of the timeline and costs associated with your divorce, so you can plan accordingly.

A qualified lawyer will also have strong negotiation skills and prioritize mediation over litigation. This is because a good attorney will strive to get you a fair settlement without dragging out the process and increasing your stress levels. They will work to get you a fair share of the marital property, more visitation rights with your children, and appropriate spousal support.

In New York, you can file for a divorce based on either no-fault grounds irretrievable breakdown for six months or fault-based grounds adultery, cruel treatment, habitual drunkenness, etc.. A contested divorce can require a lengthy trial to reach a final resolution.

An uncontested divorce can be a quicker and less stressful option, particularly when you and your spouse agree on the terms of your separation. If you’re unable to reach a settlement with your spouse, a judge will decide the matter for you.

If you decide to go the litigation route, a qualified divorce attorney will prepare you for discovery proceedings and other court hearings. They will also address any temporary orders you may need for child custody, support, or living arrangements. They will also advise you on how to protect your digital assets by changing passwords on personal accounts and creating new email addresses to prevent your spouse from accessing sensitive information.

A good divorce attorney will also keep meticulous records of all documents and correspondence related to your case. This is vital to building a strong legal argument and ensuring that no critical details are overlooked. They will also be able to identify inconsistencies and inaccuracies in your documents, which can impact your case. They will also be able to detect any hidden assets or liabilities that your spouse may not have disclosed. In addition, they will advise you on how to respond to any requests for additional documentation from your spouse’s attorney. They will also assist you in negotiating a settlement, attending compliance conferences with the court, and filing your final divorce decree.